SAIT and Lufthansa Technik Canada are fueling Alberta’s aviation future

A groundbreaking partnership between SAIT and Lufthansa Technik Canada is setting a new flight path for Alberta’s aviation industry

A new aviation program has launched and thanks to our collaboration with leading global aircraft maintenance provider Lufthansa Technik Canada (LTCA), we’re taking bold steps to redefine the future of aviation education in Alberta.

Set to begin May 2026, Alberta’s first Gas Turbine Technician certificate will train students to maintain and repair engines — like those found in a Boeing 737 MAX — preparing graduates with the technical skills and regulatory awareness they’ll need to meet an increasing demand for gas turbine expertise.

“Built as a direct response to industry needs for specialists in the field, this certificate is another indicator of the value of applied education,” says Dr. David Ross, SAIT President and CEO. “By offering practical, hands-on education, we’re addressing the need for a higher education credential achieved through enhanced training and aligned with emerging industry trends.”

Cleared for landing a new career

The gas turbine certificate is an exciting addition to the Art Smith Aero Centre and it comes with game-changing support from LTCA. Elevating the program through its Fuel the Future initiative, LTCA will offer at least 10 students in each 32-student cohort an unprecedented sponsorship opportunity.

“Fuel the Future is about opening doors to possibilities. For those students selected, there are no program costs — everything is covered,” says Max Schramm, LTCA President and CEO. “At LTCA, creating opportunity is at the heart of this first-of-its-kind initiative for the Alberta aviation industry that removes barriers, so every student has the chance to build a lasting career.”

Developed from the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s (BCIT) successful industry-aligned program and adapted with SAIT’s academic strengths and expertise, the new credential offers learners a pathway into high-demand careers as aircraft maintenance engineers and gas turbine specialists.

We made it official

Following the announcement of the newcomer to Canada’s aviation sector in early 2025, SAIT and LTCA signed on the dotted line of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to solidify a collaborative commitment to elevate the industry. Together, we’re ready to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry and elevate Alberta’s position as a global aviation hub.

“This partnership underscores SAIT’s commitment to providing world-class education and advancing Alberta’s economy,” says Lynda Holden, Dean, School of Transportation. “Students will gain hands-on experience and connect directly with an industry leader in the Canadian market — it’s an exciting opportunity for Alberta’s aviation talent.”

This collaboration is more than just a new program. It represents a transformative opportunity for Alberta to lead in workforce development and innovation in the aviation industry. By combining our excellence in applied education with Lufthansa’s global reputation for technical mastery, we’ll establish a direct pipeline of highly skilled, career-ready professionals to meet the sector’s growing demands.

“Our partnership with SAIT also reflects our wider commitment to Calgary, to Alberta and to Canada’s leadership in global aviation,” says Schramm. “We’re creating pathways for generational jobs that strengthen families, communities and the future of the sector.”

Through experiential learning and meaningful industry partnerships, SAIT continues to fuel Alberta’s economy, empowering students — and the future workforce — to reach new heights.